Kava

Piper methysticum

The drink slightly numbs the mouth and tongue and is relaxing. Research points to a modest effect on anxiety, but results vary and the safety of supplements is disputed.

Safety notes

Rare severe liver injury has been reported. Avoid combining with alcohol or sedatives and seek advice about medicine interactions.

Cautions by tradition (1)

Herbal medicine worldwide: Not in pregnancy, max. one month in a row.

Preparation

The dried, finely ground root is kneaded in cold water and strained; the drink is taken from a shared bowl (tanoa or coconut shell). No dosage is given here.

Use in traditions

Kava (yaqona in Fiji, ʻava in Samoa, ʻawa in Hawaiʻi) has been drunk for centuries throughout Polynesia and Melanesia. The drink opens ceremonies, welcomes guests (the sevusevu in Fiji), seals agreements and accompanies the deliberations of village elders. In Hawaiʻi, kahuna lāʻau lapaʻau also used ʻawa for restlessness, sleeplessness and pain.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Herbal medicine worldwide

Attributed effects

Pain-relieving, antispasmodic, antiseptic, calming, diuretic, tonic, promotes sleep.

Preparation and amount

Tincture in drops on the tongue for pain; tea as a sedative for tension and insomnia, for rheumatic pain and urinary tract infections; capsules for pain and tension headache; mouthwash for toothache; wash on small wounds; juice 5–10 ml for chronic respiratory complaints.

Caution: Not in pregnancy, max. one month in a row.

Ways to prepare herbs: Tea (infusion)Powder and kitchen

Sources

All herbs from Oceania →